This document discusses three common research methods used at the biological level of analysis: case studies, experiments, and correlational studies. It provides an overview of the pros and cons of each method. Case studies allow for an in-depth analysis of individual cases but have low reliability and generalizability. Experiments have high internal validity but low ecological validity. Correlational studies can show relationships between variables but do not prove causation.
2. Today’s Learning Outcome
B3- Discuss how and why particular
research methods are used at the
biological level of analysis.
I can explain the pros and cons of
different research methods at the
Biological LoA.
3. Ecological Validity
The measure of the whether an
experiment shows what will happen in the
real-world (w/humans).
4. Research Method #1: Case
Study
A researcher observes the behavior of an
individual or group in depth.
Tests, interviews, and detailed observations.
Pros:
Allows for an in depth analysis of a problem that
cannot be researched in other ways
May highlight extraordinary cases and theories
Cons:
Not possible to replicate
Unrepresentative sample Low
Reliability/Can’t apply directly to the rest of
society.
5. Research Method #2:
Experiment
Investigations carried out under highly
controlled conditions to draw a
relationship between the IV and DV.
Pros:
High Controls High Validity
Easy to replicate
Cons:
Low Ecological Validity
Participant/Researcher Expectations
6. Research Method #3:
Correlational Studies
Research designed to show the relationship
between two variables.
Positive Correlation: X Increases, Y increases
More Studying, Higher Test Scores
Negative Correlation: X Increases, Y Decreases
More TV, Lower Test Scores
Pros:
Shows possible relationship between variables
Cons:
Correlation ≠ Causation
A Relationship does not mean X caused Y to
happen.
7. Your Task
For each research method…
Identify and list studies that demonstrate
this method
For one study, explain why the research
method was selected, including the pros
and cons of the study.